Stew-
There are many reels that I would recommend and the Tioga is not one of them. They are cheesy reels (sorry CnD) and I think you can find much better for the money but if you decide to go with the Tioga get atleast the 10LA. Look at the Lamson Velocity 4 or Redington AL or RS2 9/10. The Velocity and AL are right around 2 bills while the RS2 is around $150. I would take a serious look at the Veclocity. Very simple construction yet has a very smooth drag system with a large arbor and machined aluminum plus Waterworks/Lamson is a great compnay to work with.

I am not familiar with the 13' #8 St. Croix but I have heard it is not similar to the St. Croix 14' #9 which is much faster more Euro style rod. Given that I would probally fish a 8/9/10 Windcutter. Both the Velocity and the Redington's will hold 100 yds of 30# backing and the 8/9/10 just perfectly.

If you would like, the International SpeyCasting Forum is a great resource for the two-handed fisherman. And I can guarantee you will find specific information on the 13' #8 St. Croix and what line would be best for it.

International Spey Casting Forum